[pct-l] Poison Oak/Ivy & Poodle-Dog Bush on the PCT

[Lindsey Sommer]

Oh boy, reminds me of growing up in Mendocino county on the north coast of
CA. My friends and I ALWAYS had PO because it grows everywhere up there. I
assume it's something to do with moist redwood forests that probably
provide an ideal home :)

Oddly I haven't had it since childhood and I think this is partially
related to the fact that I'm VERY good at identifying it. I'm also slightly
allergic, so being able to recognize it during different seasons is
important (though, this is rough when there aren't any leaves). I'm sure
there are going to be spots where it's unavoidable, but I suggest doing a
good review of identifying it throughout the west?

(This might be a myth that I've allowed myself to believe since childhood,
but doesn't PO look slightly different depending on what type/region? This
might be entirely untrue and if so I should probably look that up!).




On Wed, Mar 13, 2013 at 9:26 PM, Ken Murray <kmurray at dr.com> wrote:

> Melissa,
>
> I'm a volunteer wilderness ranger and trail crew leader, mainly in the
> Sierra.... in fact, I'm going to spend a week working the PCT for the 7
> miles north of the Kennedy Meadows Campground in just over a week.
>
> One reason I like working in the Sierra is the LACK of Poison Oak (we have
> no Poison Ivy in the western states, only the east) up there above 4,000
> feet. There is a lot on the west side of the range, in the lower regions.
> the PCT pretty much doesn't go there. I saw my first poodle brush plant
> last year 5 miles north of Kennedy meadows (I removed it). That's in 50+
> years of backpacking up there.
>
> Poison oak also likes and prefers a lot of water. Very often, it is where
> there is a stream crossing where you will see it at lower elevations. I
> doubt if you'd encounter it in the desert, but semi-desert is prime
> territory.
>
> I have used all the prevention products for my winter activities on the
> westside, and they work to some degree, but are a hassle. If you wash with
> soap ASAP after a known exposure, you may prevent the outbreak.
>
> Long clothing is a good idea, but of course, you are getting the oil on
> your clothing, instead of your skin, and it is sitting there ready to get
> you.
>
> You CAN wear different clothing at different stages of your hike, and
> should think of doing so, just like some prefer different footwear.
>
> As for removing the oil, soap and water works well, also rubbing alcohol.
>
> Hope you feel well soon. The coast range is FILLED with PO!
>
> Ken Murray, MD
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-- 
Lindsey Sommer
MLIS Candidate 2014 -- University of California, Los Angeles
lgsommer at gmail.com
M: (808) 298-1116